South Korea is certainly a country of contrasts. Stunning mountains and hiking trails come up against the throbbing neon lights and clamour of one of the busiest 24-hour cities on earth in its capital, Seoul. Centuries-old tradition blends with slick, modern fashion and architectural design which means South Korea is one of the most popular destinations on Earth. Seoul itself is the powerhouse of Asia’s third-largest economy and is constantly evolving, with its work-hard, play-hard attitude and youthful spirit. You can hardly walk a few feet without bumping into a tourist information office, train or subway station or a taxi in this sprawling metropolis where exquisite old palaces rub shoulders with crowded night markets and elegant glass shopping malls.

South Korea itself makes up the bottom half of the Korean Peninsula and is very distinct and separate from its North Korean neighbour. Officially named the Republic of Korea (ROK) in its entirety, South Korea is the kind destination you’ll never forget. It’s a vibrant, welcoming place where the obsession with the latest high-tech piece of technology exists alongside a deep respect for tradition, lifestyle and culture of old Asia.

5 Things You Need to Know About South Korea

Here are five things you may not have known about South Korea, which you’ll want to make note of before packing your bags:

Time Difference: UTC +9 hoursCurrency: South Korean wonNative Language: KoreanWeather: South Korea has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are usually long, cold and dry. Summers are very short, hot, and humid. Spring and autumn are pleasant but also short in duration.Sales Tax: 10%

Flying to South Korea from Canada

Here’s everything you’ll need to know about flying to South Korea from Canada, including flight times and entry requirements.

Flight Times

Flights from Canada to South Korea generally take around eleven to fourteen hours, with direct flights available from Toronto and Vancouver.

Flights from other cities in Canada such as Calgary, Montreal and Quebec will require you to take an indirect route, which may take a little longer.

Entry Requirements

Canadian citizens using a Canadian passport do not need a visa to visit Korea for the purpose of tourism, business, or visitation, provided that no work is undertaken, and the stay is less than 90 days in length.

Airlines That Fly to South Korea

The following airlines offer direct flights from Canada to South Korea:

- Air Canada
- Korean Air

10 South Korea Must-Dos

If you’ve never visited South Korea before and are wondering what the ‘must-see’ sights and attractions are, here are our top ten:

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